''We're coming in playing (against) a passing offense, they had foot quickness. ... We just punched them right in the mouth, and that's what you've got to do.''

The Red Raiders (5-0) were 17-for-18 in first-down conversion and compiled 435 yards in total offense.

Tony Freeman, who almost scored on an 86-yard touchdown run late in the third quarter, said he is elated by the team's undefeated record.

''We've won more (games) than we have in three years, so it feels better than ever,'' said Freeman, who scored two plays after his long run.

''It was all our offensive line. They did all the hard work. We just had to find the holes and hit them.''

The offensive line Stamper and Freeman praised is full of youth and inexperience. The Red Raiders, who have had only four winning seasons in school history, don't have any returning starters on the offensive line, but with their win Friday they have assured themselves of a .500 season.

Madison County's Brad Kirk #15, runs in a touchdown to score against the Jefferson Dragons Friday night in Danielsville.Dot Paul/Staff

''The kids did a good job of concentration, and all we were worried about was ball security from the first snap,'' said Red Raider head coach Tom Hybl, who was impressed by the play of his young offensive line and his running backs.

''I am real proud of that crowd. Those kids are really all brand new for us.''

Hybl said his team's performance might quiet some of the people who have been critical of the Red Raiders' non-regional schedule this year. In Hybl's eyes, winning is winning, no matter who's on your schedule.

''I just want everybody to stop worrying about this non-region stuff,'' he said. ''These kids were given this schedule. We're just playing the schedule that they got us. We don't have a choice. It's a lot better than 0-5, and that's where we've been for the last couple of years.''

Hybl also said the weather might've given his team an edge over the Dragons.

''The weather probably hurt Jefferson because the rain took a little of their passing game away from them,'' he said.

The Dragons' offense managed only 82 total yards and four first downs. However, Dragons' coach Bob Gurley didn't make any excuses.

''Both teams played on the same field,'' Gurley said. ''It was wet on both sides. If you're going to do this kind of offense, you've got to be able to do it rain or shine.''

Surprisingly, the Dragons fumbled the ball six times but never lost possession. Potts, however, threw two interceptions, which resulted in two touchdowns.